The state government is all set to establish high-security prisons and dedicated high-risk zones within existing facilities to manage hardened criminals, organised crime offenders and other high-risk inmates. This is being done with an objective to dismantle the network of gangsters who are furthering their network from jails.Sharing details, Minister for Jails Dr Ravjot Singh said, “The Punjab Government has prepared the Punjab Prisons and Correctional Services Bill, 2026, which will provide a modern, technological and humane direction to the existing prison administration in the state.”The Bill, tabled during the special Vidhan Sabha session on Friday, will replace the Prisons Act, 1894, which was primarily limited to custody and discipline and did not adequately address modern-day challenges. It introduces several provisions to safeguard inmates’ human rights, enhance transparency, accountability and strengthen security mechanisms.Highlighting the use of technology in prisons, Dr Singh said, “The Bill ensures extensive use of modern technology in prisons, including e-prison systems, digital record management, biometric identification, video conferencing, AI-based CCTV surveillance, RFID tracking and anti-drone systems, which will significantly improve transparency and efficiency in prison administration.”Detailing security upgrades, he said, “High security zones will be created for high-risk inmates to prevent negative influence on other prisoners, and a dedicated research, analysis and intelligence (RAI) wing will be established to strengthen internal prison security.””The Bill provides for scientific classification of inmates based on age, gender, criminal background, health and behaviour, with special arrangements for women, transgender persons, elderly and sick inmates, including separate accommodation, deployment of female staff and adequate facilities for pregnant women and children,” he added.The minister said, “The Bill ensures medical facilities in every prison, regular health check-ups, screening for diseases such as TB, HIV and substance abuse-related conditions, de-addiction centres and a strong emphasis on mental health care.””Strict penalties have been incorporated for offences within prisons, and attempts to escape, threatening officials or smuggling prohibited items will be treated as serious offences and dealt with firmly,” he said.